About WBM

Why Blue Matters is an internet platform dedicated to showcasing aspirations and the results of those who turn their aspirations into reality.

Regardless of the ambition, whether in the arts, business, community, entertainment, lifestyle or sports, Why Blue Matters intends to present its audience a variety of people in communities just like theirs whom they are instantly able to identify and relate to.

Designed to last two weeks, new fashion/beauty product gives today's woman on the go the opportunity to get some of her time back while saving money in process.

Introducing Shellac by CND.

Rather than spending a crazy amount of time/money, rushing or having to stick it out because you don't have any, the great minds over at CND developed a hybrid composite that is hypoallergenic, 3-Free (formaldehyde, toluene or DBP), and has the look and feel of a nail polish but has the ability retain the look of freshly prepared nails for 14 days (around $40 to $45). What does this mean ladies??? This means days or nights for that matter of chipping, sheet marks, and anything else you can think of are long gone.

The Process

Interestingly enough, the application process isn't anything far from what most are accustomed to. Shellac is applied no different than regular polish using specially formulated base coat, two layers of color, and top coat. After each coat of polish is applied, one hand gets placed under the timed UV lamp while the other hand is being painted.

Removal. Quite simple. CND has developed finger wraps that within a matter of minutes allow the polish to remove with ease.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

What most women don't know or fail to realize is that men are simple. Simple creatures who like simple things and do not(I repeat DO NOT!) pay any attention to detail like most women do. On the other hand we also know women are completely complex we say things and we mean them, we want things a certain way and we expect to get them how we ask of them. Although this is a very good way to be at times it can be slightly overwhelming to the male (in other words, his big brain can't function the demands), because it's not a simple task. For example, asking to take out the trash while he is watching a game or asking to have a serious conversation while he is playing a video game. These are all examples of a man not paying attention to detail, therefore not meeting your needs. As a woman, this would make you feel some type of way, but dont fear, because MANEATER IS HERE!! LMAO.

Now, a man will do pretty much anything you ask when in the honeymoon period for these reasons:

1. you havent given up the cooter

2. he wants to be on his best behavior

3. he is actually enjoying the honeymoon period

4. the cooter is fantastic(if you have already given it up)

Basically saying the relationship is fresh and new, and all of us women know when the "HP" has begun, we tend to open up. Become more cuddly and needy and loving and blah...blah..blah..

So at this point the man thinks he has got you, so the comfortable stage begins:

1. he doesn't call as much

2. majority of your talks has fallen on texting

3. he ignores what you say sometimes

4. the dates become less and less outdoors and more in his bedroom

5. the sweet nothings and love notes have faded

6. the i love you's seem more and more rehearsed and forced

7. holding hands is now only on special occasions

8. (the ultimate!) when his friends are over you become the maid instead of the girlfriend, if your even invited or when they are around anymore.

These things can be very upsetting to a woman and can almost leave your relationship stalled and your confused wondering what the hell you did.

but don't be fustrated ladies I have the trick.

1. When the "HP" begins you take this time to get to know him:

yes be persistant, but don't develop your future plans around his life

2. Take your time with your Love Box:

of course, it is obvious you are attracted to him but dont jump on his disco stick the first week or two you start going out let him sweat alittle.

3. Be sexy for yourself:

don't just start being sexy once your in a relationship..shave those legs..get a bikini wax..get your hair and nails done..enjoy yourself alittle ;)

4. Have some girl time:

now ladies, i know when you first get a man you want to be all about him and its so hard not to text him or call just to say "i miss you", "was just thinking about you", but it has to be done. give your phone to a trusted friend and go have a good time. if its not your parent of some emergency dont answer it. yes he will be alittle upset but simple "my phone was on vibrate" or "______ was holding my phone the whole night my bag was full". Every move is not necessary for him to know..PLUS! if you follow this rule to the appropriate rate and not abuse it. i gaurantee he will be more punctual to your QT(Quality Time) schedule.

5. STOP making a big deal out of everything:

nobody likes a fussy tantrum priss puss, if you dont like something, don't embarrass him in front of his posse. thats probably why your not invite when they are around. when he wants something from you, which will be shortly after they leave. slightly bring it up.

6. Dont use words like:

we need to talk!

1st of all!

why did you!

how could you!

you better!

you know what you did!

***guys dont respond well to these types of words, because it sets off a signal like they are in trouble so they alert for defense and ready to kick your emotional wall to the ground.**

TRY:

hey babe you know that night when you said_______well, it kind of hurt me, i felt alittle uncomfortable, because______

***with this or something easier along these lines will help you get a conversation going because he is relaxed and ready to listen. he doesn feel threatened and you are allowed to say how you feel without sounding like the crazy girlfriend soon to be EX!.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

J Long has finally released his video for his hit song "Personal Freak" it's been burning up the charts and all over radio. Pretty Ricky are also in the video, check it out and let us know what you think?

This Sunday, May 23rd @ Secret Lounge TNBT Presents: We Are One. Nightlife, Networking & Live Performances. Some of the best in the entertainment business will be attendance. It is sure to be a phenomenal night.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

On May 16th, 2010 Why Blue Matters participated in the New York Walk for AIDS. Considering it was our first walk as a team made it that much more spectacular of an event.

The National AIDS walk is held year round in many different states and countries. This year the walk for AIDS raised over 5 million dollars. To find a cure is important to more than doctors and people who have the virus. People like myself and my team also care about things and events such as this. We may not be infected, we don't even have to know anyone who is. The fact is everyone should care about finding a cure for anything that can make a person sick or kill them.

With AIDS spreading around the world on such a frequent basis, we encourage the effort and support of finding a cure. Get tested. If you can't go alone take a friend. Better yet take your partner. Be safe together and be aware of the things you do. If you're not celibate. Then protect yourself. You are not immune to catching an STD let alone AIDS. Some things in this world can not be taken lightly and that includes your life.

If you or anyone you know that hasn't been tested or just needs to be.Call this number: 1-800-825-5448

Find a testing center near you and live your life. Their is no embarrassment in finding out.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Los Angeles, CA * May 25th, 2010 - Join Frankee Razor, as he Performs LIVE May 25th @ Ca'Brea Lounge (346 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036). The Event will serve as the Debut Music Video Premiere Party for Frankee Razor's new single, "Right Now"!! Come hangout with Frankee Razor, the cast and crew as we celebrate this historic Achievement with a LIVE PERFORMANCE!! Showtime is at 9pm

Friday, May 14, 2010

LOCAL QUEENS ARTIST FOCUS OF ZONE OUT ENT WILL BE APPEARING ON MAD HOUSE RADIO TONIGHT MAY 14TH @ 9PM. CHECK IT OUT. IT'S A SHOW NOT TO BE MISSED.http://www.streetmuzikfm.com/HE'LL BE ANSWERING ANY AND ALL QUESTIONS. SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY OR ASK SEND IT ALL TO MADHOUSERADIOFM@GMAIL.COM

Thursday, May 13, 2010

In a world that's quickly becoming homogenous, it's often difficult to stand out and make your impression felt. There is for example and far too frequent it seems, this one, attempting to be like that one, that one trying to be like this one, which ironically enough causes individualistic movements to not be so individualistic and much like something else. Yet what's more interesting is that regardless of what "that one" or "this one" are, they're interchangable with the self expression of the arts and humanities.

On the other hand, there is one movement, out of The Garden State (New Jersey) beginning to grow while at the same time, becoming catalysts for a more ill lifestyle so to speak. Not in a sense of sick, but ill in the sense of better. iLLSPiRE Fashion Group as they're known is inspiring an individualized well being while looking great in the process.

Check out what was said and have an opportunity to know them a little better.

[As Told To Why Blue Matters]

Who is illSPiRE?

illSPiRE: iLLSPiRE means: inspiring people to live 'iller.' our goal is for you to stay cool, live fresh, & be ill. the illspire culture promotes no boundaries, no barriers to keep you from living life the way you decide. our brand allows you to express yourself in a fun and creative way, while paying tribute to the trends of the past. we stand by those who dare to be different, accept the challenges that stand before us, & embrace all who believe that life has no limits. welcome to our creation and we hope that you decide to live iLLSPiRE.

Where are you from?

illSPiRE: Jersey north to south.

What does fashion mean to you?

illSPiRE: Fashion to me is when you have the chance to express who you are without even speaking. Majority of people stereotype on first impression by what a person has on, and fashion gives you that chance to deliver that.

What would you consider your style of clothing?

illSPiRE: The style would be considered eye catching, meaningful, and inspiring.

What do you like most about being a fashion designer?

illSPiRE: The fact that i can take my visions put them down on paper and then have them transferred to clothing that someone can wear and express to countless viewers.

How did you develop illSPiRE Cause?

illSPiRE: iLLSPiRE came about with the vision that two cousins had when they came together and decided that they wanted to wear their own clothing and share them with others.

What inspires and motivates you?

illSPiRE: When iLLSPiRE first came about my inspirations were different than they are now. At the beginning it was the fact that the designs that were out at the time were either not appealing to me or I felt that I could make them myself. Now that iLLSPiRE has a following I feel that I keep going for them, the idea of them wanting more and helping me get my vision out is the fuel to keep my motor going.

Biggest accomplishment?

illSPiRE: I really do not know how to rate certain accomplishments over others. Every accomplishment is big to me, but to name some are being put into shops, invited to partake in multiple fashion shows, having an online shop, acquire a following.

How long have you been involved in fashion?

illSPiRE: iLLSPiRE officially launched in october of 2008.

What type of impact would you like to make with illSPiRE Cause?

illSPiRE: Sky is literally the limit. If you limit yourself then once you are approacing your goal you begin to decrease, but if you do not set a bar than you continue to strive for greatness.

What do you do outside of fashion design?

illSPiRE: Support positive movements. For example we have are associated with multiple dancers, Taeko Carroll, Jose Tena, Ian Eastwood. Also a skateboarder out of north jersey by the name of Pete lopez. Time to Time we get a poem from MJeanious and others.

Considering this is the top of the year, what are your plans for 2010?

illSPiRE: Do more of everything we did last year, double matter a fact triple what was done then. Do more fashion shows, get our product in more stores, get more people to join the movement.

Any advice for those looking to pursue their fashion aspirations?

illSPiRE: If you really have a dream then go ahead and make it a reality. If you REALLY want to persue fashion than nothing should hold you back. At times you may hit some road bumps that slow you down, but the further you keep going the more you shall see improvement. Positive people produce a positive outcome.

In this week’s post I thought I would talk about choosing the right projects. As many will know there are a plethora of resources available to the up and coming artist no matter what your field(s) of talent are and once you’ve built your networking engine opportunities will come knocking at your door (nearly literally). But how do you know which projects to choose. Which projects are going to further your career most effectively and which are just a waste of time? Here are a few tips to help you figure out which projects are right for you and which to steer clear of.

Prepare your self! As I have mentioned in previous articles it is more than important to be prepared to go to any audition, go-see or interview. Resumes, pictures, press kits, performance materials and equipment are essential to the success of any project you get involved with. As a photographer it is important to also know the environment I will be working in as well. What kind natural and artificial light is already present? What elements in the environment change, when and how they change and what means will I need to have available to me to control that change. In order to control the outcome of any situation you have to know its elements and what they are capable of and why. This also applies to the entertainment field in all of its facets. The more you know the better you can prepare yourself for anything that can happen.

The best way to prepare your self for any environment is to investigate it. DO YOUR HOMEWORK!!! Take the time to get to know and understand as much as you can about the environment you are introducing yourself to and all of its aspects from the greatest to the smallest. This information will help you in more ways that you can imagine until you find your self needing an answer to a particular problem that crops up once you are on location. Another really cool lesson I learned is as you are preparing yourself to go out to a gig look at everything you are taking versus everything you are not taking that you could need. If you look at a piece of equipment or material you think you might need, chances are YOU WILL! Take it with you. You’d rather have it with you and not need it than to need it and not have it. Also, your sense of preparation and professionalism will be noticed.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Find out who is in charge and who they answer to as well as who answers to them. Knowing the chain of command around you helps to better guide you in asking the right questions to the right people. Some executives while on hand may not necessarily have the time to answer all of your questions but a well placed associate or even a well-informed intern can provide you with information that can give you a good competitive edge. After all that is why you are there. Subtly ask how the project is compensated. I have also addressed this issue in previous articles (see Surviving the Casting Call at WhyBlueMatters.com). While it can be a touchy conversation to have and many just jump right in with both feet, in many cases it ill raise a red flag wit your executives. NEVER ASK “Am I getting paid for this?” Whether the job is paid or not the answer will almost always be “No, Good Day!” A better way to address the question of compensation is “What are the benefits for those chosen to work on this project beyond the exposure of working with your company?” remember the interview process is a conversational one. You are not being interrogated! You have the right to ask questions as well. In some cases, exposure is more than enough compensation, especially if the executives you are working with are willing to allow you to network and pass out your business card. Just remember that anyone you hand your business card to will probably use it. Be careful! Other cool forms of compensation are guaranteed repeat work for good performance, vouchers for union work and my personal favorite, referrals.

Now that you have done your homework, and you have meditated on the validity of the project and you know what is expected of you and what you can expect, ask your self the question, “ Is this project conducive to what I am trying to do with my career?” One of the worst things you can do to your career is to take a project that will follow you for the rest of your days like bad credit!!! Remember, there may come a time when you will want to run for public office, get a corporate job, become a parent or at least show your face in public again so it is important to make sure you make teach decision wisely! Your future is at stake.

Don’t be bullied by anyone into anything by anyone for any reason. There are a lot of strong personalities out there and they can be intimidating especially to the newbie’s to the industry. Also, know that not all bullying comes in the form of “strong arm” intimidation. Often times what you are going to run into is people that will make you an offer that you will either have to take or leave and by leave I do mean gather your belongings and get out. Understand that you are not obligated to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, puts you in harms way or compromises your integrity. Not even contractually!!!

ok ladies..since i've been bedridden for sickly purposes, i have sunk my teeth in a very juicy television show on Starz. It is called "Sparticus Blood and Sand" which tells the story of a man who betrays the Roman Army, defeats four gladiators when he was suppose to die, and gets sold into slavery to become a gladiator himself.

Now the story itself is AMAZING!!, but the culture of Roman time(especially the intimacy) was quite entertaining and shocking at the same time. Everyone making love, screwing, fucking without a care and the only way a woman would be a whore is if she was casted into the class of a whore or cheated on her spouse and was found out. But even so, some of the spouses in the show slept or started four-play with (sex)slaves. They also had orgies and had sex with each other while others watched. KINKY RIGHT! of course, in this day and time, you could never do anything of the sort freely and openly without some type of discretion or judgement. Woman would never be

aloud to openly sleep with a man because she was horny and then ravish another man in the bathroom of her home while her best friend watched! That today, would be unsavory. She would instantly be named a "slut". Its so hard to believe in Roman times woman of hire class had the most lovers.

But what does this all come down to? Our history has completely changed over time concerning intimacy between the opposite sexes. Today we are kept in little boxes of descency and monogamous relationships. Where apparently the eye constantly wonders on both sides. No dont get me wrong there have been some cases of true love...to love one and only one for the rest of your life, but if it wasnt so..would you?

If monogamous love wasnt forced on us and the rule was to practice promiscuity, would it be easier to be monogamous? Is love actually promiscuity?

Loving as much people as you possibly could, sharing your love with anyone you wanted and not feel so pressured to pick just one? Men not being such the enemy, because they operate according to nature oppose to women not being so hell bent on the idea of just relying on one relationship and actually having fun. Not worrying about their reputation being soiled in society. What if we have been living the wrong way when it comes to love. Pressing this issue of monogamy and ruling out promoscuity as if it were a disease. How would you react to a world that was completely free of intimate exhibition?

Alot of the times I see women in bars or at lounges with these scandolous yet fabulous ensembles on. I mean dress way above the knee, cleavage shown in a low v-cut, and heels on a stairway to heaven. Then on the other side of the nightlife scene, I see these other women, covered up, prestine, mid-heel and cute little hair-do's. Now, what woman gets more attention? The woman with the prestine white glove look or the woman with the sexified red dress look?

I guess its a question of moral value and what you will stand for.

BUT!!...

Is the woman in the red dress get up merely just on the prow for a man and the woman in the prestine white glove approach trying to detect herself of the doggy meter?

what are the meanings of this?

I have reached out to my male and female companions:

The males basically state that the woman in the red dress is just looking for some attention, because she is probably confident in her body and wants to show it off.

I ask them does it look like the woman is trying to say something or does she symbolize something for the male figure?

Majority of them thought the woman in the red dress was into having a good time way more than the woman in the white gloves.

In other terms they used one seemed to stick out like a sore thumb,

"FREAK"

she's a freak, definitely a freak (quoted).

Now what about the woman in the white gloves

it seems she is very covered up not leaving much out, so she is pretty much leaving some things for the imagination. Usually making her "wifey material".

Although the men did state she was indeed someone they would consider being with long-term, opposed to Ms. Red Dress, but that is a step most men in their 20s are not ready to commit too. So White Gloves would most definitely be going home alone, while the other would be getting her car tuned up nice lol.

The womens prospective on the whole thing was completely different. The woman in the red dress would definitely be going home alone, because she was somebodies whore and/ or definitely trying too hard to graps attention of the male suitors around her. While the woman in white gloves, would be the center of attention, because she was leaving more to the imagination and guys love the mystery.

(WELL WERENT THEY WRONG!!)

Ladies!!, men love visual. Majority of the time it is a visual aspect for them.

A man once told me" when a woman speaks, a man hears a symphony. when a man speaks a woman hears his words". which means beyond certain key words that men are listening out for, they are not listening to you half the time and we hang on to their every word!

Now, im not saying dont listen to men and im not saying go out with your cooter hanging out to get a nice tune up, but i am saying wear something that compliments your figure and exhilerates your skin(or something that you like about yourself that makes you shine!!). And if you have a thigh highed dress on, dont have your cleavage hanging out(vice versa). You dont have to walk out like a slut, but you dont have to look like you came straight from the nunistry either! Be confident and your radiance will brighten up that smokey lounge or bar. As we all know being sexy is not looking the part, its being the part. It comes from the inside, and if you dont have it within...TRUST ME HUNNI..YOU DONT HAVE IT!!!...

THIS SUNDAY MAY 16TH, 20101834 BAR & BURGER 62 PEARL ST. BTWN BROAD ST. & WILLIAM ST.HOSTED BY THE DEALERS/ DICE / DJ BONNIE DANGERASSATA FROM ASSATASAYS.COM/ HUSTLEMODEMUSIC BY THE ONE AND ONLY DJ MASTERMIND AND DJ SHOW N TELLBY THERE. 8PM TO 2AM (NO COVER CHARGE)

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Tends to harden of young growing flowers...through long sunny days and a few teary hours...she knows in her heart just what every plant needs,how to grow a bright dream from the smallest of seeds...life's garden is blessed by a moms loving touch...and that's why we cherish her warm ways so much.

In the midst of a world where we feel that we're slippin, try best to look to your family and see that your trippin, but don't ever let dark thoughts consume thee.

Now as your life seeks change be forever grateful, to be who you are and never fake too, yet change for no one; light, dark, male or female. You'll forever be you in each day that revealed to you so you can see the clear path your heart will reach.

When your day is near you will be successful because he helped you get there.See The Light.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

In times like these inspiration is paramount in mental and spiritual success and growth. Without inspiration, where would we be? Where would we go? How would we become who we are ordained to be in this moment in history. It was my great honor to interview Tyrone Birkett of The Tyrone Birkett Group. A long time friend and awesome saxophonist, Tyrone has inspired, if no one else, this musician to learn and master my craft and never slow down in my pursuit of success and passion. Together with his wife Paula Ralph-Birkett and their group they have assembled some of the smoothest and inspirational jazz you will ever want to hear. You’ve never heard it soooooo good.

[As Told To Why Blue Matters]

So tell me a little bit about yourself: Who is Tyrone Birkett? Who are the members of the Group?

I'm a saxophonist/composer/producer from the Bronx NY. The Tyrone Birkett Group has several editions, depending on the type of music we need to play for a particular type of audience. The unit playing at the Battle of The Boroughs is Myself, my wife Paula Ralph-Birkett on vocals, Greg Royals on piano, Elton Thomas on bass & Jason Patterson on drums. We are doing inspirational jazz at this venue as opposed to our modern jazz, neo-soul or gospel repertoires.

Where are you all from?

All the members are from the New York City area.

What does music mean to you?

Telling stories, taking people somewhere else for a moment in time to enjoying the community of artist & audience.

All the songs are written by me or my wife Paula who is the vocalist in the group. We play one or two covers which we radically re-arrange.

Congrats on the success of the CD, In the Fullness of Time, what was the driving force behind that song?

In The Fullness of Time was a song to express that there was a set time for things that we persevered in to manifest themselves. A soothing encouragement.

What is next for Tyrone Birkett?

Among many things, we're working on a solo project for Paula, summer festivals in Nashville (if the weather does not defer) Bermuda, a new project for The Tyrone Birkett Group on my "21st Century Spirituals" concept. And hopefully a win for the Battle of The Boroughs.

Tell us more about the Battle of the Boroughs and your part in the competition?

The Battle of The Boroughs is a contest put on by WNYC FM/AM to display up and coming talent in NYC. We submitted as Bronx contestants just to see what would happen. Happily we were voted by the audience in the top 3, so that is why we are looking for votes to put us in the semifinals vs. the other boroughs. The winners get a concert in the WNYC Studios taped in HD. Top of the line production.

Do you have a web address where our readers can hear and/or purchase your music?

"Never tell a young person that anything cannot be done. God may have been waiting centuries for someone ignorant enough of the impossible, to do that very thing."

John Andrew Holmes

In an age where we have so many "Cookie Cutter Rappers" it is always good to sit and talk to a true lyricist. Ilacoin not only loves the music but the culture of Hip-Hop to his core. The Harlem native grew up under some of the pioneers of hip-hop and ultimately began writing for some of hip-hops biggest names. The complete artist, possessing witty and multi-layered wordplay, and flows and musical ability Ilacoin is the embodiment of the essence of the foundations of hip-hop.

His vast musical influences and knowledge of hip-hop lore allow him to see the music as a genuine expression of raw emotion. Ilacoin cares deeply for his culture and is committed to staying true regardless of what trends come and go.

[As told To Why Blue Matters]

So tell me a little bit about yourself:

Who is Ilacoin?

Ilacoin: Ilacoin is the name I created to answer the call for originality from Hip Hop. Ironically, a metaphor for change.

Where are you from?

Ilacoin: I'm from New York City. Harlem in essence.

What does music mean to you?Ilacoin: Music is the air I breathe, the food I eat, the woman I adore. Ha!

How has that meaning changed over the years?Ilacoin: I think music's become more important to me as a personal means to maintain my sanity as well as my humanity.

What do you like most about being an MC?Ilacoin: That's easy. Preparing and executing a dope show!

How did you get your start as an MC?

Ilacoin: I hung around a lot of dope MCs so it peaked my interests and I found out I had a natural talent at it.

Tell me about some of the projects you’ve worked on in the past?Ilacoin: Most projects I've had the opportunity to contribute part of myself to (that've been released) I'm not mentioned or credited. My 1st credit was on Doug E. Fresh's Play. They mispelled my name. I was also blessed to be around for the making of Jay-Z's Reasonable Doubt and "adding" to that project in my own little way. Most of my personal contributions have been independent. You'd have to really research to find them. My 1st song as a solo artist was "By A Stranger" featuring Black Rob. It was about loving women who didn't love themselves and how wrong things could become. Rob's verse showed up as a hit on Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 3. We wrote that together. I think my best music is ahead of me truthfully speaking.

Tell me about some of the artists you have written for and why?Ilacoin: Well don't ever think I've "written" for artists so simply put. I've collaborated as a writer with Doug E Fresh, Black Rob, Smooth Bee (Nice & Smooth), Sadat X and so on. I honestly don't even remember. I'm very giving in a comfortable studio setting. Pause. Ha! What I mean is when I'm around other artists, we vibe out and dope music is made. I was just vibing out with British singer, Terri Walker yesterday. Its about the music and capturing a moment to live on forever.

What type of impact would you like to make as a MC?Ilacoin: I think I've made it already! I've infuenced every MC from Harlem from Doug E. Fresh down. Whether you've heard of me or not. You know Harlem influences the world so there it is. Whether it be flow, rhymes, sayings, styles, or music, I've been putting down.

Who are some of your favorite artists?Ilacoin: I'm a fan of great music. Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, 2Pac, Biggie, John Mayer, Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nas, Seal, Kanye, Bob Marley and Quincy Jones off the cuff.

What do you do outside of music?Ilacoin: I love to work on cars, watch movies and spend time with my family travelling.

Considering this is the end of first quarter of the year, what are your plans for 2010?Ilacoin: I plan on dropping my mixtape, Episode 0 and giving fans an real dose of Hip Hop, which I believe is desperately needed. Its a bunch of my music I found in my library; mostly unreleased. The plans for a documentary are in the works. Then I'm following Episode 0 up with more music through mixtapes and production with artists like Stalley and Smoke DZA. If there's enough interest, an album is definitely possible for Ilacoin. I'm producing.

Any advice for those looking to pursue their dreams?Ilacoin: Never give up on your dreams but give them as much detail as possible. You have to love what you do in order to be truly successful in life. Do something long enough & you'll get good at it. Pause.

In closing, thank you for adding more significance to Why Blue Matters.Ilacoin: Thank you for having me and paying attention to what I'm doing. Episode 0 coming soon.